Thanksgiving Appetizers

    Thanksgiving Appetizers

    Thanksgiving appetizers should welcome guests without competing with the main meal. Here are warm baked cheeses, savory mushrooms, crostini, and dips that offer a little something to nibble on while the turkey and side dishes come together.

    Start with a cranberry-topped baked brie for a distinctly seasonal note, then balance it with a small selection of savory bites or spreads. You do not need to make every appetizer—two or three complementary choices will often do the job.

    For the complete holiday plan—including Honey Glazed Turkey, Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, and Puerto Rican Pernil—visit our Thanksgiving Dinner Menu and Planning Guide.

    Choosing Appetizers Before Thanksgiving Dinner

    • Keep portions small enough that guests will still enjoy the main meal.
    • Pair one warm, rich appetizer with a bright or briny spread.
    • Reserve stovetop and oven space by checking which elements can be prepared earlier.

    Table of contents

    Warm Baked Cheese and Fondue

    Warm cheese dishes feel welcoming on a cool fall day. Plan for guests to gather and dip without crowding the cooking area.

    Cranberry Baked Brie

    Total Time: 20 minutes
    This Cranberry Baked Brie is my little slice of holiday heaven and ready in 20 minutes! The chipotle cranberry sauce gives it just the right kick, and it’s perfect with sliced apples and pecans.

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    4.37 from 11 votes

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    Beer Cheese Fondue

    Total Time: 20 minutes
    Get the party started with our Beer Cheese Fondue, combining creamy cheddar and Swiss cheeses with light beer and bold spices, creating an unforgettable appetizer experience!

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    4.54 from 15 votes

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    Quick Crockpot Fondue

    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Experience the magic of melted Swiss cheese, elegantly combined with white wine and spices in this Quick Crockpot Fondue. It’s an irresistible treat to pair with pretzels, bread, or sausage and is ready in 25 minutes!

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    4.43 from 69 votes

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    Stuffed Mushrooms and Savory Bites

    These savory, bite-sized appetizers offer a delicious way to welcome Thanksgiving guests. From cheesy bacon-stuffed mushrooms to crispy carrot fritters with feta and herbs, they’re flavorful starters that won’t overshadow the holiday feast.

    Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bacon

    Total Time: 35 minutes
    Every tray of Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bacon comes out bubbling and golden, filled with a warm, cheesy center and just the right amount of crunch from toasted crackers.

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    5 from 1 vote

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    Carrot Fritters

    Total Time: 30 minutes
    I never knew leftover carrots could taste this good! These Carrot Fritters, with feta, scallion, and a touch of cumin and dill, are now a family favorite in our home.

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    4.84 from 6 votes

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    Crostini for a Thanksgiving Gathering

    Toast or prepare the bread according to the recipe and finish with toppings close to serving time if needed.

    Goat Cheese Crostini

    Total Time: 35 minutes
    This Goat Cheese Crostini with Walnuts and Honey recipe makes a delicious appetizer. Sweet honey and earthy walnuts balancing the creamy tang of fresh goat cheese in this simple crostini recipe and ready in 35 minutes!

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    4.25 from 87 votes

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    Roasted Grape Crostini

    Total Time: 45 minutes
    Sweet roasted grapes, creamy ricotta, and crunchy hazelnuts combine for a simple, flavorful Roasted Grape Crostini that’s perfect for entertaining or snacking anytime.

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    5 from 2 votes

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    Easy Dips and Tapenades

    A savory spread gives guests something to enjoy with crackers, bread, or vegetables while the rest of dinner is prepared.

    Red Pepper Feta Dip

    Total Time: 5 minutes
    I love this Greek Red Pepper Feta Dip recipe because it only has five ingredients, takes five minutes to make and it is a favorite that gets eaten up quickly!

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    4.42 from 231 votes

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    Basil Parmesan Dip

    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Savor the lush flavors of fresh basil, rich Parmesan, and creamy cheese with our heavenly Basil Parmesan Dip – it’s pure indulgence in every bite and ready in 30 minutes!

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    4.41 from 27 votes

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    Lemony Olive Tapenade with Feta

    Total Time: 15 minutes
    This chunky olive tapenade recipe is flavored with lemon-infused olive oil and tangy feta, a delicious and memorable party appetizer!

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    4.41 from 62 votes

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    Olive and Tomato Tapenade

    Total Time: 50 minutes
    Kickstart your party with our Olive and Tomato Tapenade, a deliciously tangy delight that’s sure to impress guests and elevate any occasion!

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    4.41 from 15 votes

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    Thanksgiving Appetizer Timing and Serving Tips

    • Choose two or three appetizers with different temperatures and textures rather than serving several similar cheese dips.
    • Make room for dinner: use small plates and set out modest amounts, replenishing only when needed.
    • Follow the recipe-specific chilling and heating directions for brie, dips, and toppings.
    • Have bread, crackers, fruit, or vegetables ready for serving with the spreads when the recipe recommends them.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What appetizers should I serve before Thanksgiving dinner?

    Choose small starters such as Cranberry Baked Brie, stuffed mushrooms, a crostini, or a savory dip. A few varied options are usually more useful than a very large spread.

    What Thanksgiving appetizer feels most seasonal?

    Cranberry Baked Brie combines a classic cheese appetizer with a cranberry topping and is a great selection for Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings.

    Can I prepare Thanksgiving appetizers ahead?

    Some components can be prepared ahead, but timing depends on the recipe. Check the instructions for chilling, warming, and when to add crostini toppings.

    How many appetizers should I offer for Thanksgiving?

    For a smaller dinner, two or three different appetizers generally offer enough variety before the main course. For a large gathering, add another option or more portions.

    What can I serve guests who do not want a heavy cheese dip?

    Try a tapenade or a crostini option for a contrast to warm fondue and baked brie.

    How do I keep appetizers from interfering with Thanksgiving dinner?

    Choose smaller portions, favor recipes that do not all need last-minute oven time, and stop replenishing starters as the main meal approaches.

    More Thanksgiving Recipe Collections

    Looking for more ideas to complete your holiday feast? Explore these Thanksgiving recipe collections for everything from side dishes to festive cocktails and delicious desserts.

    • Thanksgiving Side Dishes — comforting potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, and breads to complete your holiday table.
    • Thanksgiving Desserts — apple pastries, pumpkin treats, chocolate desserts, and other delicious sweets beyond pumpkin pie.
    • Thanksgiving Cocktails — festive fall drinks featuring seasonal flavors that are perfect for sipping and celebrating with family and friends.

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